Recall for replacement: GRIGRI 2, june 2011

Concerns all GRIGRI 2’s (D14 2O, D14 2G, D14 2B ) with the first five digits of the serial number between 10326 and 11136.

Background

Petzl has discovered that exerting excessive force on the fully extended handle of the GRIGRI 2 can cause internal damage, such that the GRIGRI 2 handle may become stuck in the open position.

When the handle is stuck in this position, the assisted braking function is disabled. A damaged GRIGRI 2 in this configuration will function similarly to a manual belay device (e.g. tube style device).

When using a damaged GRIGRI 2 with the handle stuck in the position as shown in Figure 1, failure to control the braking side of the rope will increase the risk of an uncontrolled descent. A GRIGRI 2 with a damaged handle must be immediately retired from service.

It is important to note that failure to control the braking side of the rope is a misuse of the GRIGRI 2 under any circumstance (See GRIGRI 2 Technical Notice - pdf file, 2.5Mb).

As of June 20, 2011, seven damaged products have been returned to Petzl through our worldwide distribution network. Petzl has no knowledge of any accidents resulting from a damaged GRIGRI 2 handle.

Petzl Response

Because the safety of our users is our primary concern, as a precautionary measure, Petzl has decided to take the following actions :

increase the mechanical strength of the handle on all GRIGRI 2’s from serial number 11137 onward.

recall all GRIGRI 2’s with the first five digits of the serial number between 10326 and 11136, and replace them with a new, strengthened GRIGRI 2.Petzl will pay for all shipping costs to complete this replacement.

If you have a GRIGRI 2 (D14 2O, D14 2G, D14 2B) with the first five digits of the serial number between 10326 and 11136, please contact your local Petzl distributor by email (see below) with your complete postal address in order to initiate an exchange.

The previous generation GRIGRI is not concerned by this recall.

" While the potential risk of damaging the GRIGRI 2’s handle is very small, our total commitment to the safety of our users has led us to make this decision. With the summer climbing season just beginning, Petzl understands that this recall comes at an inconvenient time and we are working hard to ensure that everyone receives their replacement GRIGRI 2 as quickly as possible. Everyone at Petzl is committed to resolving this issue. We thank you for your continued support. "

FAQ

How can I tell the difference between a GRIGRI and a GRIGRI 2 ?The GRIGRI 2 has been available on the market since January 2011.If you purchased your device before 1st January 2011, then it isn't a GRIGRI 2 and thus is not affected by this recall for exchange.If you purchased your device after the 1st of January 2011, then compare it with the images published in our announcements for this recall for exchange.

How can I tell if a GRIGRI 2 is included in this recall for exchange ?GRIGRI 2s with serial numbers from 10326 to 11136 are included in this exchange.

Where do I find the serial number of the GRIGRI 2 ?The serial number is laser engraved on the body of the product, underneath and protected by the folded handle.

What should I do with my GRIGRI 2 when it is included in the recall for exchange ?Contact your national distributor by email, providing your postal address in order to begin the exchange process.

How can I tell the difference between a GRIGRI 2 with a reinforced handle and a GRIGRI 2 concerned by the recall for exchange ? A GRIGRI 2 with a reinforced handle is only recognisable by a serial number after 11136.

How do I know whether a new GRIGRI 2 for sale in a shop has the reinforced handle ?The first five numbers of the serial number are higher than 11136.To help our retailers in replacing their stocks, we have temporarily added a green sticker to the product.

Will I receive the same colour GRIGRI 2 ?Yes

Can I change the colour ?No

Can I replace my GRIGRI 2 with a GRIGRI ?No

Where is the GRIGRI 2 manufactured ?In France, in Petzl's production unit in Crolles (Isère region).

Where have these GRIGRI 2 been sold ?Throughout our global distribution network.

What is the warranty of a Petzl product ?A Petzl product is covered by a 3-year warranty against all material or manufacturing defect. Exclusions: normal wear and tear, oxidation, modifications or alterations, incorrect storage, poor maintenance, negligence, uses for which this product is not designed.

What is the lifetime of a Petzl product ? For Petzl's plastic and textile products, the maximum lifetime is 10 years from the date of manufacture. It is indefinite for metallic products.

- ATTENTION : an exceptional event can lead you to retire a product after only one use, depending on the type and intensity of usage and the environment of usage (harsh environments, marine environment, sharp edges, extreme temperatures, chemical products, etc.).

- A product must be retired when:It is over 10 years old and made of plastic or textiles.It has been subjected to a major fall (or load).It fails to pass inspection.You have any doubt as to its reliability.You do not know its full usage history.When it becomes obsolete due to changes in legislation, standards, technique or incompatibility with other equipment, etc.